Written by Aarya, Year 13
The initial spark that inspired me to create compLEX was my interest in the academic study of the law. I thoroughly enjoy delving into legal issues and analysing them in depth; it was a GDST law workshop that helped me to realise that I was not alone in this. Meeting like-minded students from several different schools that shared my passion and interest in the law highlighted to me just how fantastic a resource the GDST truly is.
I therefore wanted to use it to create a space for students interested in the law to explore and share their ideas. I felt that this common academic interest could serve as a bridge between GDST schools, helping to connect different student bodies. Another one of my key aims with this magazine was to make legal issues more accessible.
The law has garnered a bad reputation over the years for being complex and difficult to understand; I was keen to ensure that the magazine remained accessible to a wider audience.
Finally, I wanted to combat the misconception that the law is boring. I felt that there would be no better way to do this than to allow students to write about what captivates them, transmitting their passion to the reader through their articles.
This first issue shines a spotlight on the role of the jury, and it was wonderful to see how every contributor took the theme in their stride and really made it their own. Every article provides a unique perspective of the same issue; together, they allow the reader to piece together a complete and nuanced understanding of the jury and its place in our criminal justice system. One of my favourite elements of the process was designing the look of the magazine, and I am very grateful to have been able to convert my academic passion for the law into a creative outlet as well.
I decided to use the OHS colour scheme of blue and gold to pay homage to the GDST school in which the magazine was founded. As for the image on the cover, after much deliberation I went with a depiction of Themis, the Greek goddess of justice. A strong female figure that fights for the principles that she believes in, I felt that this perfectly embodied the GDST spirit. Assembling compLEX has been an incredibly rewarding experience.
I sincerely hope that you enjoy reading it just as much as I enjoyed putting it together!